The controversial comedian has made headlines over the years, adopting children, ending relationships and enduring what she has described as a post-traumatic stress disorder, the Associated Press reported in announcing her return.

Barbara Walters, the show’s creator, had expressed upset over O’Donnell’s criticism of the show upon her departure, but said Monday that she appreciated her lively debate and humor. O’Donnell, 51, who had angrily sparred with conservative co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck, later said she had felt like a “foster kid” on the show.

“I have great affection for Rosie and we have remained in contact throughout the years. I am happy to welcome her back to the program. She is always a lively and engaging guest and a part of the show’s successful history,” Walters said in a statement reported by Variety.

O’Donnell apparently has the same mutual admiration, a source told PEOPLE.

“She wanted to go back and visit The View to celebrate Barbara’s last season and talk about her ABC show The Fosters and her one woman show,” the source said.